CONTENTIOUS roadworks on the Warwick Road in Stratford are “progressing well” according to council chiefs.
The Warwick Road A439 improvement scheme is geared at reducing the number of collisions and creating a safer, more accessible environment for all road users and pedestrians.
Coun Tim Sinclair, Warwickshire county councillor for Stratford North, said: “Residents are understandably concerned that good progress is being made with these important safety works, so I’m really pleased to see the progress that has been made and understand what’s next to come.
“This project addresses the high accident rate on this road as well as issues of dangerous parking and speeding. The improved cycling and walking facilities are also welcome additions to this part of town.”
However, members of Stratford District Council raised grave concerns last month that the works, which are set to last five months, could leave the town gridlocked.
A major worry was the fact the northbound side of the road would be closed for the duration of the works and the adjacent Birmingham Road could become blocked with diverted traffic.
They also pointed out that the works had been scheduled to coincide with the much-delayed Birmingham Road improvement scheme, which should have started on January 15.
SDC leader Coun Susan Juned demanded urgent talks with WCC in a bid for the scheme to be postponed and alternatives considered such as staged re-surfacing with two-way traffic flow and temporary traffic signals, but to no avail.
Since the works began last month there have been reports of long queues of traffic along the Warwick Road with vehicles, including lorries, being diverted through the town centre.
The road safety scheme includes a reduction in the speed limit, a protected turning lane at the Ingon Lane junction, which has experienced a high number of collisions, streetlighting to improve visibility of crossing pedestrians at fisherman’s car park, parking restrictions to prevent dangerous parking along the route, an off-road cycle lane, footway provisions which will better connect pedestrians to the town centre, as well as pedestrian crossing points.
In addition, there will also be signage and road lining improvements made across the entire route as well as a resurfacing of the carriageway. These works are taking place from the junction of Welcombe Road to the access of Ryan Hill Park, which is a distance of 2.8km.
Over the past two weeks, contractors have begun addressing flooding issues on nearby land.
Over the next two weeks, construction will begin on the new crossing points and footpaths/cycle ways.
WCC’s transport spokesperson Coun Jan Matecki added: “This scheme represents a significant investment in the A439, not only improving safety but also promoting sustainable travel options.
“We are committed to minimizing disruption throughout the project and appreciate the continued patience and cooperation of the local community in Stratford.”
For more information visit https://www.warwickshire.gov.uk/roadworksmap
